The Philadelphia Phillies add outfield depth after signing Dylan Carlson to a Minor League deal.
Even during the offseason, the Philadelphia Phillies’ depth in the outfield was one of the key talking points and storylines for the defending National League East Champions.
Weeks into the 2026 season, and it’s still an area the front office is working to address, and did so with an under-the-radar move on Tuesday.
The Phillies signed Dylan Carlson to a Minor League deal and have assigned him to Leigh High Valley.
Carlson originally started the 2026 season with the Chicago Cubs on a Minor League deal after he signed with them as a free agent in January over the offseason. He was a member of their big league Spring Training camp and even made the Opening Day roster, in large part due to an injury to Seiya Suzuki.
After a slow, underwhelming, and limited start, on April 10, Carlson was designated for assignment. He ultimately re-signed with the team on a Minor League deal but was released in May, paving the way for him to sign with the Phillies.
Carlson only has four at-bats in the 2026 season, but has a career .683 OPS with some solid splits against left-handed pitching. The best season of Carlson’s career came in 2021 when he put together a .266/.343/.437 slash line with 34 doubles and 18 home runs.
Mar 17, 2026; Mesa, Arizona, USA; Chicago Cubs outfielder Dylan Carlson against the Los Angeles Angels during a spring training game at Sloan Park. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn ImagesAs it pertains to the Phillies, bringing in Carlson is simply a depth and insurance move for the organization. Similar to what he was with the Cubs before being released.
Justin Crawford, Adolis Garcia, and Brandon Marsh will continue to get the majority of playing time in the outfield.
However, if the Phillies decide Felix Reyes needs more time at Triple-A, or an injury occurs, Carlson is certainly an option to bring up to the big leagues and has big-league experience.
Carlson also has three years of postseason experience that could benefit the Phillies down the line.
It'll be interesting to see if Carlson ever makes his way to the big leagues, and, if he does, what type of role the Phillies use him in.
Phillies Roundtable also offers a fan community and message board. We’d love to have you join us to talk all things Phillies. Click the “Join” button at the top of the page to join our community for free.